Get Back to What You Were Saying: Master the Art of Conversation Mastery

In this digital age, where communication often takes place through impersonal text messages and emails, the ability to engage in effective conversations is becoming increasingly valuable. One key aspect of conversational mastery is the ability to smoothly transition back to the topic at hand after a digression. This can be achieved by skillfully using the phrase "back to what I was saying."

Why "Back to What I Was Saying" Matters

According to a study by the University of California, Berkeley, interruptions can significantly disrupt the flow of conversation. When a speaker is interrupted, it can take them an average of 15 seconds to regain their train of thought. By using "back to what I was saying," you can effectively guide the conversation back on track, ensuring that your message is clearly conveyed.

Key Benefits of "Back to What I Was Saying"

• Enhanced Clarity: Helps to avoid confusion and ensures that all participants are on the same page.
• Improved Flow: Smoothly transitions the conversation, preventing awkward pauses or digressions.
• Professionalism: Conveys a sense of organization and respect for the conversation's time constraints.
• Cognitive Enhancement: Helps speakers to stay focused and recall the key points of their message.

Challenges and Limitations

• Timing: Using "back to what I was saying" at the wrong time can be disruptive.
• Overuse: Excessive use can become repetitive and annoying.
• Audience Sensitivity: Some individuals may find the phrase to be condescending or abrupt.

Making the Right Choice

Whether or not to use "back to what I was saying" depends on the context of the conversation. Consider the following factors:

• The importance of the topic
• The length of the digression
• The audience's receptiveness

If the topic is particularly important or the digression has been lengthy, using the phrase can be effective in refocusing the conversation. However, if the interruption was minor or the audience seems receptive to the digression, it may be better to continue the conversation without interrupting.

Success Stories

• Leadership Meetings: A CEO uses "back to what I was saying" to effectively steer a meeting back on track after a lengthy discussion about an unrelated topic, leading to a productive and timely decision-making process.
• Sales Presentations: A salesperson uses the phrase to transition back to the main product benefits after addressing a customer's objection, resulting in a successful close.
• Networking Events: A professional uses "back to what I was saying" to regain the attention of a potential connection after a brief interruption, allowing them to build a meaningful relationship.